Friday, May 19, 2017

A sad goodbye and a celebration of life


Sadly, I lost my cousin, dear friend, and musical companion, Jeremy, in a terrible truck accident early Thursday morning while driving his rig making a work delivery. It was extremely unexpected and untimely as he was only 43 years old. 

Jeremy was my cousin through marriage but it made little difference as I could not have adored him more. His father was married for 10 years to one of my blood relatives and I never had the chance to actually get to know Jeremy until I began singing publicly via karaoke where he helped run shows. Later on, I ended up singing with his father's band at gigs and open mic nights. On rare occasions, I had the wonderful opportunity to sing and play with him during live gigs. Jeremy was a sweet, loyal, good person who would do anything to help his family and friends. We saw each other through a great deal of situations and I will be forever grateful to have had him my life! 

He was brought up into a very musical family (his brother is a professional tap dancer and dance instructor who currently lives in New York) and he learned at a very young age how to dance, sing, and play guitar and drums. The thing that always amazed me about him was that he was born with amusia ("tone deaf") and seemed to overcome it so easily (although I am sure in reality that it was not). Jeremy was also very involved in singing and dancing in local musicals and he also was experienced at assisting behind the scenes.

Jeremy & I singing a duet at Karaoke Nite in 1996 ("Don't Go Breaking My Heart")

Jeremy singing and playing live with his dad's band 

Jeremy (on left) and I performing together at a local pub in 1999

Singing with his dad in more recent years

Willow, Jeremy and I posing pretty for a pic together


Although I will deeply miss him, I know that a dear and strong spirit such as his will forever live on in the hearts of each and every life he touched. Love you always, Jer! 

5 comments:

  1. My dearest Kim I am so sorry to hear such sad news about your cousin passing away after his tragic accident. From your photos Jeremy looks like he had a good and happy life filled with the love of family and friends.
    Jeremy will live on as you said Kim, in all of your hearts 💞

    My deepest condolences and sympathies dear friend 💝

    ReplyDelete
  2. I'm so sad to hear that my friend, Kim, but I believe he will always be there for you, just as you are for him.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I am sincerely sorry for your loss.

    ReplyDelete
  4. May you continue his legacy of giving people joy through singing and dancing. May the Muses be with you and him in the summer land he is going to. )0( Blessed Be Jeremy

    ReplyDelete
  5. I am so sorry for your loss Kim!! So very sad! Such a beautiful tribute you wrote for him! Sending you gentle healing hugs!

    ReplyDelete